Leigh Whannell Signs On to Direct Insidious: Chapter 3

Filmmaker Leigh Whannell is set to return to The Further by signing on to write and direct the upcoming horror film, ‘Insidious: Chapter 3.’ The second sequel in the acclaimed ‘Insidious’ series will be released on April 3, 2015 from Focus Features, who acquired the distribution rights from FilmDistrict.

Whannell is known for launching the ‘Insidious’ franchise with his ‘Saw’ co-creator, James Wan, who helmed the first two entries in the supernatural series. He also wrote the first two ‘Insidious’ movies, in which he starred as Specs. The director also penned the first three ‘Saw’ movies, and portrayed Adam Faulkner-Stanheight in the original film.

Jason Blum, the founder and CEO of his company, Blumouse Productions, which produced the first two ‘Insidious’ movies, will return to produce ‘Insidious: Chapter 3.’ He will be joined by ‘Parnormal Activity’ director Oren Peli and Wan. Principal photography on the third entry in the ‘Insidious’ series is scheduled to begin on July 7.

Of Whannell’s hiring as the scribe and helmer of ‘Insidious: Chapter 3,’ Peter Schlessel, Focus Features’ CEO, said, “It’s with great pleasure that we turn the ‘Insidious’ franchise over to the co-creator Leigh Whannell. We are all excited to see in what direction Leigh takes the next installment and we are also glad to welcome James Wan to his new role as producer.”

Blum added, “We are all excited to bring a third film to audiences and know James and Leigh have great things in store for our fans…we look forward to working together along with Focus Features, James Wan and Leigh on the next installment.”